There is no noun “tend” to mean “nursing”.

I’m not sure which slipshod definitions and indications you are referring to but if you are saying:

1) “A Study in Scarlet must be one of the most used 15 letter phrases in crossword puzzles” – it may be for an experienced cruciverbalist like you but, for a relative novice, do you think it springs to mind, especially if the theme is not known? When does a crossword solution become a cliche. paricularly if you are a beginner and do not know anything of past usage (leading to the question: where does a crossword setter pitch his/her level between experienced solvers or complete novices?)

2) “TEND” has been synonymous with ‘Nurse’ for quite a few puzzles I’ve seen or am I missing something?

3) If you are being strict, then more of the clues regarding Holme’s exploits are correct. For examples, it is “The Adventure of the Speckled Band”, rather than “The Speckled Band” and “The Adventure of the Final Problem” rather than “The Final Problem”. As you noted, not essential, so why spoil the fun for a missing ‘The’?

I didn’t!

A Study in Scarlet must be one of the most used 15 letter phrases in crossword puzzles. Invariably when I see the indications 1,5,2,7, I automatically think of it.

Gregory might have led people quicker, but Bob Peck is a fine (although not so widely known) actor.

23 across INTEND Can TEND mean “nursing”

Having recently seen an old Guardian puzzle which had THE BLACK SABBATH, THE QUINTESSENCE, THE GRATEFUL DEAD and THE FLEETWOOD MAC in those four 15 letter slots and three of the bands were hardly if ever known by THAT PREFIX. tODAY WE HAVE TWO “THE’s” and yet it was omitted for THE Red-Headed League. Not essential I suppose for a daily puzzle, but it still stood out to me.

It grieves me to say it, but I didn’t think it was one of the Rev’s best.

I’ll edit the post above.

Re 1d , it is THES (part of Theseus) + PECK (Bob Peck the actor) + LED BAND (conductor).

Great stuff, Araucaria!